This module presents approaches to research design in a professional education context. The following topics and issues will be explored: Research principles and paradigms; strategies for data collection. Data management, analysis, interpretation and presentation. Research Management: planning and organising a research project; identifying researchable issues; critically engaging with academic literature; time and task management; organising fieldwork. Ethical issues in education research, consent and confidentiality issues

A written research proposal which shows the participant's:
a) Rationale for topic choice in relation to professional context
b) Critical understanding and analysis of key literature in the chosen research area
c) Refined aim and objectives of the research project
d) Detailed research design and methodological approach to the proposed research project

(LO1,2,3)

A variety of distance learning and teaching methods will be used to help students develop their evaluation skills that will enable them to select an appropriate research method for a study. Via the University’s online platforms (Blackboard VLE and MS Teams), students will engage in collaborative learning activities, group discussions, case studies, problem-based learning activities and participant centred investigations which include trialling a range of research tools. There is a strong emphasis on activity-focused learning and participants are expected to actively engage in all sessions. In addition, participants are required to engage in independent study to consolidate and build upon their directed learning. This takes the form of undertaking follow-up tasks and work based self-assessments and reading key texts.

Formative assessment opportunities used in the module will facilitate student’s self-assessment of learning through tutor and peer dialogue. Students will present an outline of their intended proposal in order to receive peer and tutor feedback.

1. Demonstrate an informed and critical understanding of a contemporary issue that is worthy of further exploration in order to advance professional knowledge

Knowledge and Understanding
Learning
Application

2. Apply appropriate techniques of research and enquiry in order to design a robust, ethical and manageable research study

Analysis,
Enquiry,
Knowledge & Understanding
Problem Solving

3. Effectively communicate aims, objectives and key concepts of a research proposal to academic and practitioner audience

Communication
Learning
Reflection

MS Teams and Blackboard VLE will be used throughout the programme for repository of resources and interactive learning.

University Library for a range of relevant texts, e-books and academic journals

Cohen, L. Manion, L. and Morrison, K. Research Methods in Education (2017) (8th Edition). Routledge: Abingdon

Gillman, B. (2007) Developing a Questionnaire (second edition). Continuum International Publishing Group, New York

Kara, H. (2017) Research and Evaluation for Busy Students and Practitioners; A time-saving guide (second edition). Policy Press: Bristol

Kara, H. Lemon, N; Mannay, D.; & McPherson, M. (2021) Creative Research Methods in Education. Policy Press: Bristol

Newby, P (2014) Research Methods for Education (second edition). Routledge: Abingdon

Punch, K. and Oancea A.L. (2014) Introduction to Research Methods in Education. Sage: London

Robinson, S.B & Leonard, K.L. (2019) Designing Quality Survey Questions. Sage: London

Savin-Baden, M. and Howell major, C. (2013) Qualitative Research: The Essential Guide to theory and practice. Routledge: Abingdon

Thomas, G. (2021) How to do your case study (3rd edition). Sage: London

Tight, M. (2019) Documentary Research in the Social Sciences. Sage, London

This module presents approaches to research design in a professional education context. The following topics and issues will be explored: Research principles and paradigms; strategies for data collection. Data management, analysis, interpretation and presentation. Research Management: planning and organising a research project; identifying researchable issues; critically engaging with academic literature; time and task management; organising fieldwork. Ethical issues in education research, consent and confidentiality issues